The UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme strengthens Djibouti’s border security and counter-terrorism capacities

Following a consultation with the relevant stakeholders in March 2023, and the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding in June 2023, the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel (CT Travel) Programme conducted a five-day interactive training to strengthen border security and counter-terrorism capacities through the engagement of local legal, operational, technical, and transport industry stakeholders. This training took place from the 7 to 11 January 2024, in Djibouti.

The United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel ('CT Travel') Programme, to which IOM is a partner, currently supports 69 beneficiary Member States across the globe to enhance their national capabilities to detect and intercept terrorists and serious criminals. The program aims to provide the latest knowledge, lessons, and best practices to future operators of the Passenger Information Unit, as well as policymakers, relevant ministries, and operational agencies involved in the use of Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR). The outcomes of this project will enhance the database on border security in Djibouti and the region. This initiative will enhance international information exchange and cooperation for actionable intelligence, aligning with Security Council resolutions 2178 (2014), 2396 (2017), and 2482 (2019), as well as recommended practices, other international law obligations, relevant privacy laws, and human rights principles. Additionally, the CT Travel Programme involves deploying and operational use of the UN 'goTravel' software system.

“I am happy to witness the fruitful collaboration of multiple UN agencies in working hand in hand with the authorities of the Republic of Djibouti to create the required environment to promote effective border management that benefits national and international security.” says Jose Barahona, Resident Coordinator of the UN office in Djibouti.

IOM works closely with the Republic of Djibouti to promote safe, humane and regular migration that benefits all since 2009, and facilitate the implementation of the Programme thanks to its long-standing relations with relevant national agencies.

The CT Travel Programme is a flagship global initiative of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), that follows an ‘’All-of-UN’’ approach, with the joint efforts of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the United Nations Office of Information and Communication Technology (OICT), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which are all implementing partners.